How long does it take to build a brick model?

It is one of the questions we hear most. The honest answer depends on the set and on you, but there is a simple rule that works for most builders.

The 250 pieces an hour rule

Working at a calm, comfortable pace, most adult builders place around 250 pieces an hour. That means:

• A set of about 1,000 pieces takes roughly 4 hours.
• A set of about 2,000 pieces takes roughly 8 hours.
• Our largest collector builds can take 25 hours or more.

Every 12GO® product page shows an estimated range in hours right next to the piece count, so you know what you are signing up for before you open the box.

What makes a build faster or slower

• Complex sub-assemblies. Gearboxes, turrets and moving parts take longer than flat panels.
• Similar colours. Sorting dark grey from black under poor light slows everyone down.
• Experience. Your second and third builds will be noticeably quicker than your first.

Tips for a smoother build

• Open one bag at a time. Our sets come in numbered bags that match the stages of the printed manual. Keeping the rest sealed means nothing gets mixed up.
• Use a tray. A shallow tray or a few small bowls stop pieces from rolling off the table.
• Build in good light. Daylight or a bright desk lamp makes colours much easier to tell apart.
• Split it into sessions. A stage or two per evening turns a big model into something to look forward to all week.

Missing a piece?

It happens rarely, but if it does, send a photo and your order number to hello@12gobuilds.com and we ship the replacement free of charge.